Swami Dayanand Saraswati: Shaper of modern Hindu thought

Swami Dayanand Saraswati was a prominent Hindu reformer, philosopher and the founder of the Arya Samaj, a socio-religious organisation that sought to revive Vedic traditions and eradicate superstitions from Indian society. His ideas played a crucial role in shaping modern Hindu thought and inspired several nationalist movements in India.

Born as Mool Shankar Tiwari on February 12, 1824, in Tankara, Gujarat, he was raised in a devout Brahmin family. From an early age, he exhibited sharp intellect and deep religious inclination. His father, a wealthy and orthodox Brahmin, introduced him to the worship of Lord Shiva and the study of scriptures. However, a pivotal moment in his life came when he witnessed mice running over an idol of Shiva during a temple vigil. This deeply unsettled him, making him question idol worship and prompting a quest for spiritual truth.

Determined to seek enlightenment, Mool Shankar renounced his home at the age of 21 and wandered across India, studying under various scholars and sages. He eventually became a disciple of Swami Virajananda, a blind but highly learned Vedic scholar, who guided him in mastering the scriptures. It was Virajananda who urged him to dedicate his life to reviving the lost wisdom of the Vedas. Renamed Swami Dayanand Saraswati, he embarked on a mission to restore Vedic teachings and rid Hinduism of corrupt practices.

In 1875, Swami Dayanand founded the Arya Samaj in Mumbai, a movement aimed at reforming Hindu society by returning to Vedic principles. He opposed idol worship, caste-based discrimination, child marriage, untouchability and superstitions that had crept into Hindu practices over centuries. Instead, he advocated for rationalism, equality and education for all, including women — a radical stance in those times.

His most influential work, “Satyarth Prakash” (The Light of Truth), was published in 1875. In this book, he criticised prevailing religious practices, including blind faith and rituals, and provided logical interpretations of the Vedas. He also promoted 'shuddhi' (reconversion) for those who had left Hinduism, aiming to bring them back to Vedic traditions.

Swami Dayanand’s teachings had a far-reaching impact on India’s social and political awakening. He was among the first to advocate Swaraj (self-rule), which later influenced leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi. He emphasised education, self-reliance and national pride, urging Indians to reject foreign influences and rediscover their heritage.

He also played a role in modernising education by promoting gurukuls (Vedic schools) that combined traditional knowledge with modern subjects. Institutions like DAV (Dayanand Anglo-Vedic) schools and colleges were later established based on his vision.

His reformist activities attracted both admirers and adversaries. In 1883, he was allegedly poisoned by a cook hired by his opponents while staying at a king’s palace in Jodhpur. Despite medical aid, he died on October 30, 1883.

His contributions continue to inspire millions. The Arya Samaj movement remains active globally, promoting education, social reforms and Vedic teachings. Swami Dayanand's legacy as a fearless reformer, philosopher and visionary endures in modern India’s cultural and intellectual landscape.